Lane's uncertain status leaves Vols thin at RB

Tennessee Volunteers running back Marlin Lane (15) runs the ball during the game against the Georgia State Panthers at Neyland Stadium. Tennessee won by a score of 51 to 13. Credit: Jim Brown-US PRESSWIRE

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- Add running back to the growing list of skill-position concerns for Tennessee as it approaches the end of spring practice.

Marlin Lane's continued absence for disciplinary reasons leaves Rajion Neal as the only Tennessee running back who carried the ball last season. Lane has missed the Volunteers' last four practices.

Tennessee coach Butch Jones hasn't set a timetable for his potential return.

Devrin Young had 33 carries and Alton "Pig" Howard ran the ball 14 times for Tennessee last season, but both are wide receivers. Young moved over from running back this spring to help the Vols solve their depth problems in the receiving corps.

Lane rushed for 658 yards and two touchdowns on 120 carries last season. Neal gained 708 yards and scored five touchdowns on 156 attempts.